/ wɪˈðaʊt; NAmE / preposition , adverb
■ preposition
1.
not having, experiencing or showing sth :
They had gone two days without food.
He found the place without difficulty.
She spoke without much enthusiasm.
2.
not in the company of sb :
Don't go without me.
3.
not using or taking sth :
Can you see without your glasses?
Don't go out without your coat.
4.
without (sb) doing sth not doing the action mentioned :
He left without saying goodbye.
The party was organized without her knowing anything about it.
You can't make an omelette without breaking eggs.
Without wanting to criticize, I think you could have done better. (= used before you make a critical comment)
■ adverb
not having or showing sth :
Do you want a room with a bath or one without?
If there's none left we'll have to do without .
I'm sure we'll manage without .
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WORD ORIGIN
Old English withūtan on the outside .